About CARA
The Indo-Pacific is on the frontlines of the climate crisis. Communities and landscapes across the region are highly vulnerable to rising seas, biodiversity loss, degradation of land and water, and more frequent and intense storms and heatwaves. These impacts have compounding effects on economic growth, conflict and stability, and migration.
Reducing emissions is critical but not enough on its own as a response to the climate crisis. The global climate system has changed and there is an urgent need to invest in adaptation measures to cope with worsening climate stresses. The poorest and most vulnerable communities are hardest hit, and many countries lack the significant resources needed to respond to crises and build resilient systems and infrastructure. The gap between adaptation needs and action remains large.
Climate Action for a Resilient Asia (CARA) is the UK government’s flagship programme to help address the ‘adaptation gap’ in the Indo-Pacific. Working with governments, regional institutions, marginalised communities, and businesses, CARA is increasing resilience to climate change and laying the foundations for transformational change and green growth.
Who we are
CARA is funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. It is a central component of the UK government’s commitment to tackling climate change, restoring nature and supporting countries at the forefront of the crisis.
CARA delivers through seven components and five main partners:
The Flexible Fund component allows FCDO to deliver responsive and innovative programming through other partners across the Indo-Pacific region.
How CARA delivers impact
Climate Finance Network (CFN)
Climate budgeting, international finance access, and economic impact forecasting.
Weather and Climate Information Services (WISER)
Improved climate data and forecasting, with integration into policy.
Urban Resilience Trust Fund (URTF)
Climate-resilient urban planning, inclusive WASH services, and disaster resilience.
Resilient Asia Program (RAP)
Climate policy and investment, with transboundary cooperation on air and water.
Himalayan Resilience Enabling Action Programme (HI-REAP)
Biodiversity conservation, transboundary resource cooperation, and disaster risk reduction.
Community Resilience Partnership Program (CRPP)
Community-led adaptation, local capacity building, and women-focused investments.
Flexible Fund
Managed by FCDO, the demand-responsive fund is allocated based on needs identified by high commissions across the Indo-Pacific.
The CARA team will prioritise Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) to ensure that women and marginalised groups are supported and empowered.
Where we work
CARA’s diverse portfolio of projects is driving ambitious climate action across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. As a regional programme, CARA has the potential to support new partnerships and work at different scales, from transnational right down to the community level.